1. The Biodiversity Crisis
Chapter 55

2. Types of biodiversity Genetic diversity: Species diversity:
Genetic differences within a single population and among geographically separate populations
Species diversity:
All the different species on our planet
Ecosystem diversity:
The variety of interactions within and among Earth’s different ecosystems

3. Loss of biodiversity Extinction is a natural biological process
The rate of extinction is now times the natural rate
Other mass extinctions have occurred in Earth’s history
This one is different in that it is:
due to human activities
compressed into a short time frame
happening much faster than new species evolution can occur

4. Ways to protect biodiversity
Protection of habitats
Habitat loss/degradation is the number one cause of threatened and endangered species in the U.S.
Most of these species are ‘specialists’ – species that occupy a narrow niche and have specific requirements
Habitat fragmentation makes it worse
Degradation of habitat through pollution can also cause problems

5. Ways to protect biodiversity…
Control invasive species
Biotic pollution introduces a non-native species into an area
It may prey on native species or compete for food or habitat
There may not be any natural controls in that ecosystem – such as predators or disease – to limit their population

6. Ways to protect biodiversity…
Control other human activities
Pest eradication practices
Overhunting
Poaching
Commercial harvesting

7. Conservation Biology In situ conservation Ex situ conservation
Preservation of ecosystems
Biodiversity hotspots – areas in critical need of help
Restoration ecology – try to return an ecosystem to it’s former state
Ex situ conservation
Preservation of the individual species
Artificial insemination
Host mothering

8. Legal protections U.S. Endangered Species Act
Species listed must be protected
Species are listed without regard for economic impact of the listing
Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
Enforcement varies from country to country